Ancient Greek. Mastoid (Drinking Cup) with Handles. 500 BC–450 BC. Athens. terracotta, decorated in the black-figure technique This handled cup was likely used as part of the Greek symposium. Much like modern academic symposiums, in which people discuss a topic of common interest, debunking old theories and putting forth new hypotheses; the men of ancient Athens regularly got together in private homes to exchange ideas. Afterward the participants might continue the conversation, discussing their impressions in greater detail or simply socializing over a drink. As the evening progressed, partic

Ancient Greek. Mastoid (Drinking Cup) with Handles. 500 BC–450 BC. Athens. terracotta, decorated in the black-figure technique This handled cup was likely used as part of the Greek symposium. Much like modern academic symposiums, in which people discuss a topic of common interest, debunking old theories and putting forth new hypotheses; the men of ancient Athens regularly got together in private homes to exchange ideas. Afterward the participants might continue the conversation, discussing their impressions in greater detail or simply socializing over a drink. As the evening progressed, participants engaged in other pleasures, including games, performances, and sex. Wine played a major role in fueling these evenings, and as such the myriad vessels used in the symposium often paid homage to drink. Here, Dionysos the god of wine and theater is shown riding a donkey, whos exaggerated physical arousal would have appealed to the ancient Greek’s often bawdy sense of humor. The god is accompanied by his female companions, known as maenads, who were notorious for the kind of ecstatic, freewheeling dances they perform here.

How we Work

Contribute

Legal

Contact Us